6 Alarming Effects of Sleeping Less Than 7 Hours a Night, According to Recent Studies

Getting enough sleep is important for overall health, but stress, insomnia, and everyday disruptions can make it difficult to consistently reach the recommended amount. A survey of 2,175 UK adults conducted by sleep technology company Simba examined reported sleep patterns, health, and appearance, while an AI-generated visualization was used to illustrate possible differences associated with sleeping more or less than seven hours. Experts highlighted several ways insufficient sleep may affect the body.

Skin can be among the first areas where changes become noticeable. According to the survey, 24% of people who reported insufficient sleep experienced increased skin sensitivity, while others reported issues such as eczema, psoriasis, or a dull complexion. The explanation offered was that disrupted sleep may affect stress hormones, blood flow, and the body’s nighttime repair processes. The survey also found that 15% of people with inadequate sleep reported brittle nails.

Sleep may also influence appetite, weight, and digestion. Among those reporting insufficient sleep, 26% were overweight and 32% experienced bloating. Sleep plays a role in hormones involved in hunger and fullness, while some research has also linked sleep disturbances with constipation. Insufficient rest may additionally affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature, potentially contributing to sensations such as cold hands and feet.

The amount of sleep needed varies from person to person, but the NHS generally advises healthy adults to aim for around seven to nine hours each night. Children and teenagers typically require more, with newborns needing substantially more sleep. While an occasional poor night’s sleep is common, maintaining healthy sleep habits can support the body’s normal physical and mental functions.